BAE Systems has been awarded an $80 million contract to upgrade six Mk 45 guns on Navy destroyers to the newest configuration.
Photo: BAE Systems
The Mod 4 configuration swaps the Mk 45’s original 54-calliber barrel for a 62-calliber version. Other upgrades include a strengthened gun and mount, reduced signature and enhanced advanced control systems. The Mk 45 Mod 4 has a range of more than 20 nautical miles with the Navy’s new 5-inch Cargo projectile, according to BAE.
The contract has an option for overhauling four additional guns, which would bring the total contract value to $130 million. The delivery of the first gun is slated for October 2017, and deliveries are scheduled to conclude in January 2020.
“Our combat-proven Mk 45 Naval Gun System provides ships with an effective weapon for anti-surface, strike, fire support, and anti-air warfare combat,” said Joseph Senftle, the company’s vice president and general manager of weapon systems. “This award strengthens our position in large caliber guns and promotes the United States’ naval gun industrial base.”
The company will conduct work on the contract in Louisville, Ky., and Minneapolis, Minn.